Making Homework a Priority: A Family Tradition
As Featured in Scholastic’s Parent & Child – October 2011 Issue
Welcome to a behind-the-scenes look at how we make homework a priority in our household. As featured on page 42 of the October 2011 issue of Scholastic’s Parent & Child, this article delves into the strategies and routines that have become integral to our daily life.
Making Homework a Priority
Setting the Stage for Success
When our children started school, we knew we needed a solid foundation to support their learning journey. We set a clear precedent from the beginning: homework comes first. As they walk through the door after school, we ask three essential questions: Do you have homework? When is it due? What materials do you need?
Creating a Homework Routine
We allocate an hour each evening for assignments to ensure that homework doesn’t become a battleground. Even when the workload seems light, this hour is spent either working on homework, reading, or reviewing concepts. This routine reinforces the importance of academic responsibility and establishes a predictable schedule that our children come to anticipate and respect.
Fostering Independence: From Struggles to Success
One of our most memorable challenges involved our second youngest, who struggled with homework during kindergarten. Those early days were filled with frustration and tears for both her and us. It was clear that a new approach was needed.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
We decided to introduce a more structured system: “You have one hour to complete your homework. When this timer goes off, we expect it to be done.” This simple yet effective strategy helped shift the focus from constant nagging to a more autonomous experience.
Initially, consequences for unfinished homework included adjustments to bedtime, which provided a necessary push. However, we soon found success with a reward-based system. We created a goal chart where she could earn a star sticker for every hour of homework completed. After accumulating a week’s worth of stars, she was rewarded with a new box of crayons.
The Power of Positive Reinforcement
This approach not only made homework more manageable but also transformed it into a game-like challenge, making the process more enjoyable and less stressful for everyone involved.
Applying Knowledge in Real Life
One of our favorite ways to reinforce learning is by applying new knowledge in practical situations. When our children learn about fractions in school, we invite them to help us with cooking. Dividing or doubling recipes becomes a real-life application of their math skills.
Hands-On Learning Experiences
My husband also engages them in various DIY projects around the house, such as measuring walls or building simple structures. These activities not only reinforce their learning but also provide them with valuable skills and experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
Encouraging Open Dialogue
After completing their homework, we make it a point to discuss their work. While I never provide direct answers, I review their assignments and encourage them to think critically and seek out better solutions when necessary. This practice promotes critical thinking and communication skills, giving them the opportunity to teach me about their thought processes.
Creating a Supportive Learning Environment
Sometimes, our children admit that they don’t fully grasp certain subjects, which opens up a dialogue about seeking help and finding additional resources. This approach ensures that they feel supported and encouraged to overcome academic challenges.
For more insights and strategies, check out our featured article in Scholastic’s Parent & Child October 2011 issue.
Stay Tuned for More Great Content
As a proud contributor to Scholastic’s Parent & Child, I’m thrilled to share more articles and tips on creating a positive and productive learning environment. Watch for future posts and continue to engage with our community for additional support and inspiration!